If an automatic firmware upgrade fails, or for some other reason connection to STK600 cannot be established, a manual firmware upgrade may resolve the problem.
Before starting this procedure, make sure the latest AVR Studio release is installed on the computer.
Turn off STK600 and connect it to the PC using the USB cable
Press and hold the PROGRAM button when turning on the STK600 power switch. The status LED will flash red and orange, indicating upgrade mode.
In AVR Studio, go to the Tools menu and select STK600 Upgrade
The Atmel STK600 Upgrade program will start. If connection is established, the Status will show "STK600 present"
Press the Start Upgrade button. The upgrade program will upgrade STK600's firmware.
When complete, a message box will show if the upgrade was successful or not. Cycle power on STK600.
If the upgrade was successful, the status led will now be green. Try to connect to the starter kit with the programming tool in AVR Studio.